2. The Obama administration is preparing for new talks with Iraq. The top aided defense secretary Leon Panetta says the goal would be defining a longterm defense relationship. Expanded US training could be on the table. Iraq has been struggling with internal violence since US troops left last month.

 

 

 

3. The Obama administration is proposing new rules today that let military family members take off time for work to care for injured service members. The proposal would also allow for a leave from work when family members are called to active duty. 

 

 

 

4. In Syria, claims that a terrorist group blew up a gas pipeline. The explosion happened close the border with Lebanon. Several other pipeline attacks have been reported during the uprising in Syria. But it's unclear who is behind them.